Smoky Highball Scotch Cocktail Recipe

Let the subtle wisp of peat meet crisp effervescence in our Smoky Summer Highball.. Smoky Highball Scotch Cocktail Recipe

The Smoky Highball: A Simple Yet Striking Cocktail

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

There’s just something about a cocktail that sticks to the basics but still stands out. You know, in a world overflowing with flashy drinks that rely on wild garnishes, sugar coatings, and complicated layers, the Smoky Highball is like a breath of fresh air. This drink is for those who really appreciate the little details rather than the loud showmanship that often comes with cocktails. It whispers sophistication while still telling a rich story through its simplicity and balance.

Now, the Smoky Highball isn’t just another trendy cocktail popping up on social media. It has deep roots, evolving from a classic drink to become something even more special with the addition of peated Scotch whisky. In this write-up, we’ll take a closer look at the history of highballs, how they’ve changed over the years, and how you can whip up the perfect Smoky Highball at home. By the end of this, you’ll not only be able to make one but also enjoy the fascinating history behind its unique flavor.

A Quick Dive into the Highball’s Background

To really grasp what the Smoky Highball is all about, we need to look back and see where the highball itself comes from. This seemingly simple category of cocktails typically combines a spirit with a bubbly mixer and dates back to the late 1800s.

The term “highball” showed up in the United States somewhere around the 1890s. There’s a story that claims it originated from railway slang, where a “highball” signaled trains to go full speed ahead. So, in the bartender’s world, a highball is a refreshing drink served in a tall glass — a call to enjoy something sweet and straightforward without any fuss.

But the highball wasn’t just a big hit in America; it found a special place in Japan too. Japanese bartenders took the basic highball and transformed it into something artistic. They paid serious attention to every detail, focusing on aspects like how cold the glass is, the quality of ice, and pouring the soda just right to keep it fizzy.

This Japanese version of the whisky highball became famous for being both sleek and meaningful, offering a sensory experience that’s all about balance. Their love for simplicity really helped spark a new interest in highballs today, especially in the form of the Smoky Highball.

 

Getting to Know Peated Scotch: The Heart of the Smoky Highball

At the core of the Smoky Highball is peated Scotch whisky, known for its bold and smokey flavor. The uniqueness of this spirit comes from how it’s made; during production, the barley is dried over a peat fire. This method gives the whisky its rich flavors that can range from earthy to medicinal to even a bit of briny. It’s definitely a flavor that some love, while others might find a bit intense.

One of the standout peated Scotch brands is Laphroaig, hailing from the windswept Isle of Islay. It’s recognized for its intense peat smoke and hints of seaweed and iodine. This whisky isn’t for everyone, but when you use it properly, it creates a unique base for a cocktail that’s both bold and refreshing.

In the Smoky Highball, the peated Scotch acts like a soloist; it has a strong presence while the soda water acts as the backup singer, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.

How to Make the Perfect Smoky Highball: A Simple Recipe

Now that you know a bit about the drink’s history, let’s get into the fun part: making your own Smoky Highball! Here’s an easy recipe using Australian measurements that balance flavor and refreshment.

Smoky Highball Recipe

Ingredients:

– 45 mL of peated Scotch whisky (Laphroaig is a solid option)

– 120 mL of soda water (make sure it’s chilled and bubbly)

– Fresh ice

– Garnish: A lemon wedge or a sprig of fresh mint (totally optional, but it can really add to the drink)

Instructions:

1. Chill Your Glass:

Grab a highball glass (the tall, slim kind). Give it a quick rinse in cold water and pop it in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes or just chill it with some ice water. When you’re ready, dry it off or dump out any leftover ice.

2. Add the Ice:

Fill the glass right to the top with clean ice. The bigger ice cubes work best since they melt slower, keeping your drink nice and crisp.

3. Measure and Add the Whisky:

Using a jigger, pour 45 mL of your peated Scotch over the ice. Take a sniff; the aroma is part of the whole experience!

4. Pour in the Soda:

Slowly add 120 mL of chilled soda water into the glass. Tilt the glass a little and pour gently down the side to keep the fizz intact.

5. Give It a Gentle Stir:

Using a bar spoon or any long utensil, give the drink a light stir — just 1 or 2 times. This mixes the whisky and soda without losing the bubbles.

6. Garnish if You Like:

You can add a lemon wedge on the rim or throw in a mint sprig. The lemon adds a nice refreshing touch, while mint brings a cool smell with every sip.

7. Enjoy Right Away:

Serve it up and sip it immediately so you can enjoy it at its best!

Why This Recipe Works: Finding the Right Balance

You might be curious why we use 45 mL of whisky and 120 mL of soda. This is where the mixology magic happens. In Australia, a standard shot is 30 mL, but for cocktails, 45 mL adds more flavor without becoming too strong. A 3:8 ratio allows the smokiness of the Scotch to shine through while still being super refreshing.

This balance also means you’re enjoying whisky in a lighter way. You’re not just downing spirits; instead, you’re savoring a well-rounded drink that’s perfect for relaxing evenings or casual hangouts.

Why Ice and Garnish Matter: More Than Just Looks

If you’ve had a cocktail that ended up watered down, you know how crucial good ice is. For the Smoky Highball, go for big, clear ice cubes made from filtered water. Anything cloudy or tiny will mess with your drink before you even finish half of it.

And those garnishes? They’re not just for show. A lemon wedge adds a zesty kick, brightening up the smoky notes. Plus, a mint sprig gives a refreshing aroma that’s especially nice on a warm day.

Customizing Your Smoky Highball: Make It Unique

One of the coolest things about the Smoky Highball is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ideas to make it your own while keeping its essence:

Try Different Peated Whiskies: While Laphroaig is a classic, don’t be afraid to explore. You might try Ardbeg for a sweeter option, Lagavulin for a deeper flavor, or Bowmore for something a little warmer and fruitier. Each whisky will change up the drink’s personality.

Add Some Bitters: For a more interesting twist, toss in a dash of aromatic or citrus bitters. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

Play with Flavored Soda Water: If you’re craving something a little different, swap out plain soda for flavored versions like citrus soda or even smoky mineral water. Just keep an eye on the sugar if you want a clean finish.

What to Pair with Your Smoky Highball

This cocktail is fantastic on its own, but it pairs nicely with certain foods. Here are some tasty options:

• Chargrilled Meats: Think about lamb chops or grilled steaks that have a bit of a char.

• Smoked Salmon: The smokiness of the peated Scotch goes perfectly with oily, smoky fish.
• Roasted Nuts or Aged Cheese: This makes for a simple, satisfying snack to enjoy while sipping.
• BBQs: If you’re having a barbecue, the Smoky Highball is the perfect drink to serve.

When to Enjoy the Smoky Highball

The Smoky Highball is super flexible, whether you’re kicking back in the backyard or hosting a fancy dinner. Think about sipping it during:

• Sunset Gatherings: It’s a perfect drink as the sky begins to darken.
• After Work Relaxation: It’s light enough for a weekday but has enough character to feel special.
• Dinner Parties: Your guests will love a sophisticated drink that’s still simple to make.
• Cooler Days:The warmth of the peat in the whisky is cozy when the weather cools down.

Wrapping It All Up: A Classic with a New Twist

In a cocktail world often filled with overly sweet mixers and bold colors, the Smoky Highball stands out for a reason. It teaches us the importance of slowing down, enjoying what goes into our drinks, and savoring the balance of flavors like smoke and fizz, warmth and chill, and depth and simplicity.

Whether you’re a whisky lover or just curious about trying something new, this cocktail is a great introduction to the world of peated Scotch. It doesn’t force you to understand everything right off the bat — it invites you to take your time and enjoy the experience with each sip.

So next time you’re looking for a drink, think about making a Smoky Highball. Grab a tall glass, some good Scotch, nice soda, and quality ice, maybe a little garnish, and just enjoy. That’s all you need for a great cocktail.

Quick Smoky Highball Recipe Recap:

– 45 mL peated Scotch whisky

– 120 mL soda water

– Ice to fill

– Optional Garnish: Lemon wedge or mint sprig

– Stir gently, serve, and enjoy immediately!

Do you have a unique take on the Smoky Highball?
We’d love to hear about your favorite peated Scotch or garnish ideas! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag your Smoky Highball moments on social media with #SmokyHighballMoments to get featured next time!

Thanks for joining us behind the bar! 

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/

Read More:
Smoky Highball Scotch Cocktail Recipes
Blood In The Sand Cocktail
The Modern Penicillin Cocktail Recipes
The Classic Rob Roy Scotch Cocktail Recipe
The Rusty Nail Cocktail Recipe